What are the most important attributes of a successful IP lawyer, especially at a time when technology is evolving so rapidly?
An IP lawyer needs to be a biologist one day, a chemist the next day and an engineer the following day. Having a curious mind and a huge capacity to absorb new and cutting edge technology is de rigueur. Anyone who has a closed mind and refuses to learn new areas of technologies will be left behind. An IP lawyer must also be willing to deal with the changing legal landscape. The Singapore Copyright Act for example has just been completely overhauled overnight. The complete overhaul was to deal with the ever-changing technology and with that, the everchanging legal issues that have emerged with time. IP law, after all, is one area of law which constantly plays catch up to stay relevant.
What motivates/inspires you the most in your role?
Not knowing which technology and which area of IP law I face every day at my work motivates, inspires and in fact, excites me. Inspiring the same excitement amongst the young lawyers in my team and sharing the excitement with them makes all the hard work worthwhile. I particularly like how law and technology meld together to make sense. IP law allows this to happen. Further, because the legal landscape is everchanging in IP law, I am able to challenge the status quo. IP law is still growing and changing and needs inspired minds to help mould it to meet future needs. That also excites me a lot.
What advice do you have for younger lawyers looking to make their mark in IP?
Enter IP law only if you have a passion for it. Be like a sponge to absorb new technologies. Be bold and help mould an area of law that is still growing and developing. Be excited about constantly evolving laws and how they are changing to meet new and future needs. Most of all love what you do and do what you love. I still love what I do every day after 30 years in IP law.
Tony Yeo
Managing Director, Intellectual Property Director
Dispute Resolution Head
Healthcare & Life Sciences
E: tony.yeo@drewnapier.com
Drew & Napier
10 Collyer Quay,
#10-01 Ocean Financial Centre, Singapore 049315
W: www.drewnapier.com
